Apps you don’t recognize

Review the complete list of apps installed on your phone. If you spot applications you don’t remember downloading or that seem suspicious, this is a red flag. Many spyware apps disguise themselves with innocuous names or hide within folders. To view the list of installed apps, you can use the scan feature in dfndr security.

Battery draining fast

Spyware runs silently in the background, consuming resources. If your battery suddenly drains much faster than usual—even without heavy usage—it could indicate hidden surveillance software.

Device overheating

Unusual overheating, especially while your phone is idle or performing basic functions, may be a sign that malicious apps are running behind the scenes.

System slowdowns and freezes

If your phone becomes sluggish, apps crash, or the operating system feels buggy, spyware could be stealing system resources for its activities.

Unusual data usage

Watch for unexplained spikes in your monthly data usage. Spy apps often transmit information back to the attacker using your cellular data, so increased usage with no clear cause deserves attention.

Messages marked as read

If your texts or messages appear as read before you’ve opened them, this could mean someone—or something—is accessing them without your consent.

Strange sounds during calls

Persistent echoes, static, or faint voices during phone calls might signal that spyware is listening in or recording your conversations.

Unfamiliar files or settings

Find files, photos, or changed settings you didn’t create or modify? These artifacts can be leftover evidence of spying apps.

How to protect yourself

• Always inspect app permissions and review what access each app has to your device (camera, microphone, location).

• Run a full scan with a trusted antivirus, such as dfndr security, which detects and removes hidden spy apps and threats automatically.

• Keep your operating system and all apps updated to defend against newly discovered vulnerabilities.

• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.

Proactive Tools

Modern apps like dfndr security have features to display all installed apps, monitor for privacy risks, provide real-time protection against malware, and alert users about leaked data or unauthorized access. Using such solutions along with general awareness greatly reduces your risk.

Your best defense is vigilance: question unfamiliar apps, strange device behavior, and always be mindful of your digital footprint. Stay protected by keeping your phone secure and up to date.

Phishing and Smishing With AI

AI-powered scams use personalized messages to deceive even cautious users. Scammers pose as trustworthy companies, requesting sensitive data, passwords, or money transfers. Reports show an increase in phishing driven by AI-generated emails to improve speed and credibility.

Payments Scams

Fraudsters deploy malicious apps that monitor and divert transactions, fake QR codes to mislead payment, and false requests for refunds. Techniques even include impersonating tax authorities or banks, demanding quick responses to fraudulent claims.

Fake Call Centers and Employees

Scammers simulate bank call centers, aiming to capture passwords, install malware, or transfer funds. The rise of synthetic AI voices allows for more convincing vishing attacks, making phone-based fraud much harder to detect and resist.

Fake E-Commerce

False online stores and social media profiles lure victims with unreal deals; after payment (often via instant transfer platforms), no product is delivered. AI tools help scammers design authentic-looking websites and manage deceptive customer interactions.

SIM Swap

Criminals transfer a victim’s phone number to a new chip, gaining access to bank accounts and social media via SMS codes. SIM swap fraud has spiked over 1,000% year-on-year, fueled by AI-powered social engineering and voice cloning. Attackers exploit weak carrier identity checks and automated support systems, quickly hijacking entire digital identities and financial assets.

General Recommendations

• Never click links from unknown sources.

• Always use two-factor authentication.

• Be skeptical of offers that seem too good to be true.
• Keep your phone and apps up to date.

• Use trusted mobile antivirus software. 

If you want maximum protection for your device, consider downloading security apps such as dfndr security for real-time defense.

Common tactics used by scammers

• Shortened or masked links: Attackers use shortened URLs or complex domain names to obscure the true destination, making it difficult to spot a dangerous link before clicking.

• Deceptive promises and urgency: Phishing messages often promise sweepstakes winnings, flash sales, package deliveries, or urgent bank notifications to lure users into clicking quickly without thinking.

• Fake websites and data entry forms: Clicking a malicious link may redirect you to a convincing fake website where you’re asked to input sensitive details—like banking data, Social Security numbers, or passwords—or may silently trigger a malware download.

• Impersonation tactics: Scammers frequently impersonate trusted organizations—such as banks, government agencies (e.g., IRS), or online retailers—to legitimize their claims and increase the likelihood of success.

• Social media exploits: On platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, fake profiles or posts lure users with job offers, urgent security warnings, or giveaway announcements, often prompting users to click malicious links or divulge private information.

Real-world impact

• Financial loss and data theft: These attacks can result in financial fraud, identity theft, and corporate data breaches.

• Malware and ransomware: Malicious links can install viruses or ransomware on personal or work devices, sometimes encrypting files and demanding a ransom in return for data restoration.

Tips to Protect Yourself

• Preview before clicking: On a desktop, hover your mouse over a link to reveal its destination. On mobile, press and hold the link for a preview. Avoid clicking if the destination looks suspicious or is unfamiliar.

• Beware of unknown senders: Avoid clicking on links from unknown or unsolicited sources, whether by email, text, or direct message.

• Look for signs of deception: Watch for URL misspellings, extra symbols or hyphens, unrecognized domain names, and urgent language or threats of account suspension.

• Use security solutions: Consider security tools like URL defenses or anti-phishing filters offered by major security providers and popular email services.

• Be skeptical of official requests: U.S. government agencies like the IRS or USPS will not demand personal data or payment over email or text. Always verify through official channels if in doubt.

• Report suspicious messages: You can report phishing attempts to authorities like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or, in the case of IRS-related scams, to phishing@irs.gov.

Ready to take your mobile security to the next level?

Discover how dfndr security can help protect your devices and data. 

What is Zero Trust?

Zero Trust is a cybersecurity model based on the principle that no network, user, or device should be trusted by default, even if it is “inside” the protected environment. In other words, every access attempt must be verified and authenticated, regardless of its origin. The concept emerged to address the rise in digital threats, user mobility, and the popularity of remote work and cloud computing, which have eliminated traditional security boundaries.

In the Zero Trust model, the rule is clear: never trust, always verify. This means every connection, access, and action is continuously monitored and validated, drastically reducing the chances of attackers exploiting vulnerabilities or moving freely within a system.

Why is Zero Trust important?

With the growth of digital threats and the digitization of personal and professional life, relying solely on traditional security barriers (such as firewalls or standalone antivirus) is no longer enough. Zero Trust offers key benefits:

• Holistic protection: Covers users, devices, applications, and data, reducing security gaps. 
• Risk mitigation: Prevents threats from spreading laterally in case of a breach; each access is isolated and monitored. 
• Fast detection and response: Greater visibility into activities, making it easier to identify and respond to suspicious behavior. 
• Sensitive data protection: Ensures only authorized users and devices have access to confidential information. 
• Adaptation to mobile and remote environments: Essential for scenarios where access occurs from any location and device. 

How dfndr security applies Zero Trust to protect your phone

dfndr security incorporates the main pillars of Zero Trust to protect your smartphone from digital threats, scams, and data leaks. Here’s how:

• Continuous monitoring and constant verification: the app performs automatic and real-time scans, detecting and removing viruses, malware, spyware, and other threats as soon as they appear. No app, file, or link is considered safe without a rigorous analysis. 
• Protection against scams and phishing attempts: dfndr security identifies and blocks malicious links, fake websites, and phishing scams—even if the threat comes from known contacts or trusted networks. Anti-phishing is a highlighted feature in the English blog, with the app using machine learning and AI to detect phishing in SMS, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger, among others (see https://www.psafe.com/en/blog/new-cyber-threats-targeting-android-phones/ ). 
• Identity and credential monitoring: The 24/7 credential monitoring feature alerts you immediately if your email, password, or personal data leaks online, allowing quick action to prevent harm.  
• App access control: Allows you to lock access to sensitive apps with a password, preventing curious people or attackers from accessing your personal information even if they have your device. 
• Alerts against WhatsApp cloning and fraud: dfndr security monitors for cloning attempts and scams on WhatsApp, sending real-time alerts and reinforcing protection against fraud that exploits user trust. 
• Safe app installation: Before installing any app, dfndr security checks if it’s safe, preventing malicious apps from accessing your device. 

Zero Trust in the palm of your hand

dfndr security translates the Zero Trust concept to the mobile universe, applying the logic of “never trust, always verify” to every action, access, and connection on your phone. Thus, even in a scenario of growing threats—including those driven by artificial intelligence—your device remains protected and you stay in control of your digital security.

Ready to defend your Android device against these and other emerging threats?

Discover dfndr security, your trusted antivirus for Android.

As threats like phishing and data breaches rise, organizations and individuals are seeking more robust ways to protect sensitive information.

Biometric authentication—using unique biological characteristics such as fingerprints, facial recognition, or voice patterns—has emerged as a leading solution. Here are five compelling reasons to use biometrics to secure your mobile devices:

1. Eliminates the Threat of Passwords

Passwords remain one of the weakest links in mobile security. Over 80% of company data breaches are attributed to weak or stolen passwords. Many users still rely on simple, easily guessed passwords or reuse the same password across multiple accounts, making it easier for hackers to gain unauthorized access. Biometrics remove this vulnerability by replacing passwords with something unique to each user, significantly reducing the risk of data breaches.

Read more: How many different passwords should you have?

2. More Convenient for Users

Remembering and resetting passwords can be frustrating and time-consuming. Biometric authentication streamlines the process—users can unlock their devices or access sensitive apps with a simple fingerprint scan or facial recognition. This not only saves time but also enhances the user experience, as you can’t forget your fingerprint or face.

3. Greater Accountability

Biometrics provide a clear audit trail of who accessed a device or network and when. Unlike passwords, which can be shared or stolen, biometric data is unique to each individual. This accountability is crucial for organizations that need to track access and investigate potential security incidents.

4. Widespread Adoption and Trust

Biometric technology is rapidly becoming the standard for mobile security. Over 60% of employers already use biometrics in the workplace, and nearly half use it specifically to secure mobile devices. As more consumers and businesses adopt this technology, its effectiveness and reliability continue to improve.

5. High Return on Investment (ROI)

Implementing biometric security can lead to significant cost savings. By reducing the risk of costly data breaches and minimizing the need for password resets and IT support, organizations can achieve a high ROI. For example, one bank reported a 191% ROI after adopting biometric authentication.

Therefore, we use biometrics in the dfndr security applock.

Ready to take your mobile security to the next level?

Discover how dfndr security can help protect your devices and data. 

Article originally published by: https://www.cshub.com/mobile/articles/5-reasons-to-use-biometrics-to-secure-mobile-devices

1. Ransomware Resurgence

Ransomware attacks on Android devices have surged, fueled by the rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) platforms. Attackers deploy advanced malware that encrypts user data and demands payment for its release. These attacks are increasingly targeting not just individuals but also businesses, with devastating consequences for those who lack regular backups or robust mobile security measures. DFNDR Security offers protection against these threats.

2. AI-Driven Phishing and Social Engineering

Artificial intelligence is now being used to craft highly convincing phishing messages, emails, and even voice calls. These AI-powered attacks can mimic trusted contacts or institutions with alarming accuracy, making it difficult for users to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent communications. SMS phishing (smishing) and voice phishing (vishing) are on the rise, often bypassing traditional security filters. DFNDR Security, a leading antivirus for Android, can help identify and block these phishing attempts.

3. Exploitation of Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

Cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities—security flaws that are unknown to device manufacturers and unpatched. Attackers move quickly to take advantage of these weaknesses before security updates are released, putting millions of Android devices at risk. The March 2025 Android Security Bulletin addressed 44 vulnerabilities, including two that were actively exploited in the wild, highlighting the urgency of timely updates. Keeping DFNDR Security, your antivirus for Android, updated is crucial.

4. Malicious and Counterfeit Apps

Even official app stores are not immune to infiltration by malicious or counterfeit applications. These apps can harvest personal data, activate device sensors (like microphones and cameras), or install additional malware. The risk is even higher when users sideload apps from unofficial sources. Fake banking and utility apps are particularly prevalent, often designed to steal credentials and financial information. DFNDR Security, a reliable antivirus for Android, can detect and remove these malicious apps.

5. Mobile Banking Trojans

Mobile banking Trojans are becoming the most significant threat to Android users in the U.S. These sophisticated malware variants disguise themselves as legitimate apps, intercepting SMS messages, stealing login credentials, and even bypassing two-factor authentication. Their ability to remain undetected while siphoning off sensitive data makes them especially dangerous. DFNDR Security, your partner in mobile security, offers protection against these Trojans.

6. Rogue Wi-Fi Hotspots and IoT Integration Risks

Cybercriminals are setting up rogue Wi-Fi hotspots in public places, tricking users into connecting and then intercepting their data. The growing integration of Android devices with IoT (Internet of Things) gadgets further expands the attack surface, allowing attackers to compromise multiple devices simultaneously. DFNDR Security, the antivirus for Android you need, helps protect your connection.

7. Advanced Spyware and Surveillance Tools

Spyware and surveillance malware are increasingly targeting Android devices, capable of tracking location, recording conversations, accessing cameras, and stealing stored data. These tools are often used in targeted attacks against individuals and organizations, sometimes backed by state actors. With DFNDR Security, your mobile security is enhanced.

The threat landscape for Android users in the United States in 2025 is more complex and dangerous than ever. Staying protected requires vigilance, regular software updates, cautious app installation, and the use of trusted mobile security solutions like DFNDR Security, the best antivirus for Android.

Ready to defend your Android device against these and other emerging threats?

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